Degrees Available at SIUE

Master of Science

Teacher Licensure: No teacher licensure is available.

Why Exercise Physiology?

Exercise Physiology is a rapidly growing field with a focus on the treatment of healthy or unhealthy individuals using exercise, nutrition, and behavior intervention. Exercise Physiologists are responsible for the assessment, improvement, and maintenance of health and fitness; rehabilitation of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases/disabilities; and the professional guidance of athletes and others interested in sports training.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities for individuals graduating with a degree in exercise physiology are numerous. The demand for Exercise Physiologists is outstanding and is expected to remain very strong due to the increasing emphasis on prevention of illness and with the use of exercise as a means of promoting good health. The salary range for an exercise physiologist is $38,000 to $50,000 with the median salary of $43,000 - 45,000. The widespread career opportunities make this an attractive field for allied health professionals with the job outlook described as "very good" for the future.

Exercise Physiology at SIUE

The Master of Science Degree in Kinesiology with a specialization in Exercise Physiology is offered as an adult evening program designed in accordance with the American College of Sports Medicine [ACSM] for certification as a Certified Clinical Exercise Specialists. The curriculum is designed to prepare individuals for careers as exercise specialists directing cardiac preventive and rehabilitative programs, personal training, strength and conditioning specialists, hospitals, corporate wellness, positions in health and exercise science programs, or further study in graduate programs or allied health programs in medicine or physical/occupational therapy. Students are able to begin in the fall, spring or summer and can complete all degree requirements in 12, 18 or 24 months. Students are able to complete either the non-thesis option or thesis option.

Students in the non-thesis option are able to begin in the fall, spring or summer and can be complete all degree requirements in 12, 18 or 24 months. Students in the thesis option typically require two academic years to complete course curriculum.

Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis option for the Master of Science in Kinesiology degree in Exercise Physiology is for students who are not interested in pursing a doctorate. Through classroom learning, laboratory experience, and true hands-on experience the non-thesis Exercise Physiology Program produces exceptional graduates that are well prepared for the professional work environment. The option provides course work and laboratory experience that prepares students for careers in adult fitness, hospital or corporate-based wellness programs, cardiac rehabilitation, strength and conditioning specialists, or professional careers (e.g., physical therapy, occupation therapy, dentistry, pharmacy, etc).

Thesis Option

The thesis option for the Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in Exercise Physiology is intended to give exceptional students knowledge in basic medical and scientific areas to prepare them to pursue a doctoral degree in exercise physiology. It should be pursued only by students who have a serious commitment to the science of exercise physiology. Students focus on the study of the human body's responses and adaptations to physical activity. Students in the thesis option will typically take two academic years to complete the course work and research thesis. The student and faculty advisor will match thesis and coursework with the goals of the students to provide an exceptional learning experience.

How to Apply

If you have already decided that SIUE's Exercise Physiology Program is the right one for you, APPLY ONLINE NOW. You can also request additional information by contacting our program director Dr. Josh Wooten.